It’s interesting to see how music moves in cycles. Forward Forever, the sophomore LP from the Leeds based duo of Jack Sparrow and Ruckspin, seems to take influences from all over the place, but their sound points directly towards the heyday of Ninja Tune. Traces of The Cinematic Orchestra and Bonobo can be felt throughout the album. Granted there’s definitely a heavy dose of the dubstep that the two producers release separately. That’s joined by more jazzy and atmospheric elements that draw on the past which gives the duo a forward minded take on a somewhat throwback sound. Nothing is too outside of the lines, but the sound contains enough experimentalism to affirm its singularity. Guest MCs pop up throughout the record with contributions from UK hip hop head Jehst and battle regular Stig Of The Dump. Black Canvas’ Rider Shafique makes an appearance, as does reggae vocalist Dan Man. Limited edition double vinyl pressing.

• music label: Black Box 2014

reviewed by Michu Meszaros